INDIAN RIVER COUNTY — The 2014-15 flu season is off to an earlier than usual start in Florida. In the last several weeks, influenza and influenza-like illness (ILI) activity levels have steadily increased across the state.
Currently, influenza activity in the county is highest in children, but is widespread in all age groups. Increased flu activity in children usually comes ahead of increased flu activity in adults and the elderly.
“We urge everyone to get a flu shot. This is the best way to protect yourself against the flu,” said Miranda Hawker, Administrator of the Florida Department of Health in Indian River County.
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) has identified an antigenically drifted influenza A (H3N2) strain circulating nationally and in Florida that is different from the strain of influenza A (H3N2) contained in the current 2014-15 influenza vaccine formulations.
Vaccination is still recommended as it provides some protection against drifted viruses and it can also protect against other circulating strains. People who have not yet been vaccinated should get vaccinated now.
Influenza can cause serious illness, especially in older people, young children, pregnant women and people with underlying health conditions. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention estimates that flu vaccination prevented 7.2 million illnesses and 3.1 million medical visits during the 2013-14 flu season.
Flu vaccine is recommended for everyone six months and older. The vaccine provides protection, and can decrease severity of illness. This year’s flu vaccine does provide some protection against the drifted virus (H3N2) seen nationally and in Florida, and also protects against other flu strains circulating this season.
Important steps you can take to protect yourself and others from the flu:
• Get vaccinated against the flu
• Stay home if you are sick
• Wash your hands with soap and water. If not available, use alcohol-based hand sanitizer
• Cover your cough or sneeze
Flu shots are offered at a variety of locations throughout Indian River County. For children ages 6 months through 18 years, they are offered at no cost at the Gifford Health Center, located at 4675 28th Court in Vero Beach, (772) 794-7415.